Nasal Irrigation May Not Be an Effective Method for Relief of Sinusitis

Newswise — Nasal irrigation has been widely used by rhinologists in treating sinonasal diseases. It not only removes static secretion and promotes mucociliary clearance, but in chronic rhinosinusitis, nasal flush is also a route for topical drug administration into paranasal sinuses.

But a new study presented at the 2007 AAO-HNSF Annual Meeting & OTO EXPO raises concerns that nasal irrigation techniques are not as effective as previously thought. The prospective study included 14 patients presenting with bilateral chronic rhinosinusitis. Patients underwent nasal irrigation using either a douche irrigation syringe or a spray. For each patient, a computed tomography scan was undertaken to determine the volume and the distribution of staining in the nose and the paranasal sinuses.The results showed that neither nasal douche nor spray effectively delivers nasal irrigation solution into paranasal sinuses in chronic rhinosinusitis.

Results from the study could impact future research into delivery methods for medications intended to treat sinus conditions.

Title: Efficacy of Paranasal Sinus Irrigation in Chronic SinusitisAuthors: Kornkiat Snidvongs, MD, Pattraporn Chaowanapanja MD, Songklot Aeumjaturapat, MD, Supinda Saengpanich, MD, Puangmali Praweswararat MDDate: Monday, September 17, 11:40 am - 11:48 am

Information for the Media: The AAO-HNS Annual Meeting newsroom will be located in Registration East, Street Level of the Washington, DC Convention Center. Hours of operation: Saturday, September 15, 12 pm to 5 pm; Sunday - Tuesday, September 16 -18, 7:30 am to 5 pm; and Wednesday, September 19, 7:30 am to 2 pm The newsroom serves as a work space for credentialed members of the media and credentialed public relations staff. The newsroom is managed and staffed by the AAO-HNS Communications Unit. Please see the AAO-HNS website for media credentialing requirements for the event - http://www.entnet.org/ent-press/online_reg.cfm.

About the AAO-HNSThe American Academy of Otolaryngology " Head and Neck Surgery (http://www.entnet.org), one of the oldest medical associations in the nation, represents more than 12,000 physicians and allied health professionals who specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of disorders of the ears, nose, throat, and related structures of the head and neck. The Academy serves its members by facilitating the advancement of the science and art of medicine related to otolaryngology and by representing the specialty in governmental and socioeconomic issues. The organization's mission: "Working for the Best Ear, Nose, and Throat Care."